The Grammy awards have introduced a category for Americana music. This great blend of country, folk and rock has had a home for years on SiriusXM Outlaw Country. With many Country fans growing tired of the poppy direction of some country, it is glorious to know that the people behind the Grammys have seen the great growth in this kind of music. Fans have packed small venues to see great acts like Charlie Robison and Cross Canadian Ragweed. The “OC” also has been home to the offspring of many of Country’s greatest rebels. Hank Williams the Third has been producing a nice mix of Americana and Traditional Country music with different projects.  Hank the third has also been heavily involved in Metal with Assjack and Superjoint Ritual!

I am happy that it is thanks to Stevie Van Zandt’s visionary idea in creating this station, we see a great focus returning to the music rather than a perceived typical Country image. Many of the artists we hear on Outlaw Country are talented greats who might still occasionally appear on Prime Country or The Roadhouse but have not enjoyed as much commercial success in the last few years.  Yet, these artists are still releasing quality music and packing concert halls.

In looking at the inaugural list of Grammy Nominees for Americana album of the year, we see all people whose music is proudly featured in The “OC”. Bob Dylan, Levon Helm, Wilco and Lucinda Williams released quality albums this year and it is great to see them nominated.

What is discouraging though is seeing one reviewer gripe that this list shows a lack of upcoming talent. This kind of music is only now being recognized by much of the so called “mainstream” media, so why not focus on how great the whole genre is instead?

Sirius XM 63 Outlaw Country features great Americana Music and edgier Country with different influences outside of the pop vein. Worth a listen and number 7 on my pre-set!